3 Days Rwanda Gorillas and Dian Fossey Hike

Embark on an exhilarating 3 Days Gorilla Trekking and Dian Fossey Hike, where you will encounter the majestic endangered mountain gorillas and pay homage at the tomb of Dian Fossey, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The Volcanoes National Park stands out as Rwanda’s most frequented national park. The park boasts the second largest population of mountain gorillas globally and served as the base for the renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, who dedicated her efforts to studying the lives of these magnificent creatures. Dian Fossey devoted a significant part of her life to exploring the world of primates and safeguarding them from poachers and animal traffickers.

Embark on a thrilling journey through the wild, exploring the majestic gorillas and tracing the footsteps of Dian Fossey.The park now boasts 10 habituated gorilla groups available for tourists to explore all year round. Dian Fossey was the pioneer who uncovered numerous truths about mountain gorillas and developed methods to help them feel at ease around humans. She discovered that to earn the approval of all group members, it was essential to first win the favor of the dominant silverback. Fossey observed that by imitating the various sounds and grunts of gorillas, they gradually started to place their trust in a human. Eventually, she shifted her attention from pure research to the thrilling world of gorilla conservation in Africa, passionately battling against poachers and traffickers of baby gorillas. Ultimately, this led to the creation of numerous adversaries who are thought to have conspired against her life. Dian Fossey was discovered tragically slain in her cabin nestled between the majestic peaks of Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke, allegedly at the hands of an individual thought to have been contracted by poachers or traffickers.

Day 1: Arrive and be greeted in Kigali – Explore the city – Journey to the Volcanoes National Park

Your Driver/Guide will meet you at the airport or your hotel in Kigali, ready to embark on an exciting journey. The Guide will share exciting insights about the tour and what thrilling experiences await you. If you are looking to purchase something, he is the perfect person to guide you on the best places to explore. Following the briefing, the driver will embark on an exciting half-day tour of Kigali city. On this journey, you will explore the genocide memorial site, the former presidential palace, the bustling city markets, and charming souvenir shops. Afterward, you will enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the fantastic eateries or hotels in Kigali.

Three days of trekking with gorillas and hiking in the footsteps of Dian Fossey.After lunch, the Guide/Driver will embark on the exciting journey to the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. This journey lasts two hours, and you’ll arrive at the lodge by 4pm, just in time for check-in and some delightful refreshments. As the sun sets, you can request the Guide to lead you on an exploration of Lake Ruhondo and Burera or wander through the vibrant streets of Musanze town before returning for dinner.

Enjoy a delightful dinner and a cozy overnight stay at Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury), Hotel La Palme (Mid-range), or Muhabura Guest House (Budget).

Day 2: Embark on a thrilling journey to encounter gorillas – Explore the vibrant Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

Exploring the world of gorillas and embarking on unforgettable visits The resting place of Dian FosseyRise with the dawn and enjoy a hearty breakfast as you get ready to embark on an exciting journey to the park offices for your briefing. Be sure to request your hotel staff to arrange some light snacks for your thrilling gorilla tracking experience. At the park offices, you will encounter the park wardens, rangers, various officials, and a lively mix of tourists eager to engage in a variety of activities. The park officials will guide you through the activity and provide insights about mountain gorillas, including what to anticipate and how to conduct yourself while tracking. Following the briefing, you will be paired with a gorilla family based on your fitness level, availability, and personal preference.

Gorilla trekking at the Volcanoes National Park can last from one to six hours, depending on the gorilla group assigned to you and their location or feeding ground. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda offers an exhilarating experience, though it can be challenging if you are not in peak physical condition. You will trek through dense bamboo forests, navigate thickets, conquer rough terrain, and traverse hills and valleys before coming face to face with the primates. Always heed the guidance of the rangers, particularly when in the company of the primates. Always maintain a safe distance from the gorillas and avoid eating nearby. When in a group, always be mindful not to encircle the primates, as this may cause them distress. Refrain from using flash cameras around the gorillas to keep their curiosity in check and prevent startling them. Once you discover the gorillas, you have just one hour to immerse yourself in their world. After observing the family engage in playful antics and share meals, the moment has come to depart. You will return to the starting point where our driver will be eagerly awaiting your arrival, ready to take you to the park offices for a moment of relaxation.

Embark on an exhilarating journey with a gorilla tour and a hike to the grave of Dian Fossey.Later in the afternoon or evening, the Driver/Guide will lead you on an exciting visit to the Gorilla Guardian Village. Once referred to as the Iby’iwacu cultural village, the Centre is a place where the rich culture of the three Rwandan tribes comes to life. You will have the chance to pick up unique souvenirs for your loved ones back home. Make sure to stop by the local medicine man and discover the fascinating ways common ailments were addressed before modern medicine took hold.

Enjoy a delightful dinner and a cozy overnight stay at Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury), Hotel La Palme (Mid-range), or Muhabura Guest House (Budget).

Day 3: Explore the Dian Fossey Tomb and the historic Karisoke Research Centre – Journey to Kigali

Rise with the sun and enjoy your breakfast as you anticipate the Guide’s arrival to lead you to the park offices for yet another exciting briefing. You will then embark on an exhilarating journey to the slopes of the mountains, tracing the same path as Dian Dian Fossey on her trekking and gorilla tour.Fossey embarked on numerous journeys each month many years ago. As you trek along, the rangers will unveil fascinating stories about Dian Fossey, her groundbreaking work with gorillas, her foundation, and the lasting impact she made. You will have the opportunity to meet some of the porters who collaborated with her back then, allowing them to share their personal experiences of working alongside her. Dian Fossey rests near Digit, the gorilla she cherished most. You will also explore her previous work station and the now somewhat worn Karisoke Research Centre.

Once you finish the hike to Dian Fossey’s grave, you will make your way down and meet the Guide who will escort you back to the hotel for checkout, marking the start of your journey back to Kigali.

End of tour 

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